Light and Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup (Weight Watchers Friendly)

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound lean Italian turkey sausage, casings removed
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounces) can of petite diced tomatoes, no sugar added
  • 8 ounces whole wheat pasta or a gluten-free alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 ounces light cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup fat-free half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large saucepan, cook the lean Italian turkey sausage and onion until the sausage is cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
  2. Add the garlic, fennel, and red pepper flakes, if using, and cook until fragrant, about a minute.
  3. Stir in the reduced-sodium chicken broth, no-sugar-added diced tomatoes, whole wheat pasta, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked al dente, approximately 6-8 minutes.
  4. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, softened light cream cheese, and fat-free half-and-half (or unsweetened almond milk). Allow the cheeses to melt into the soup for about 3-5 minutes, stirring to combine.
  5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your Light and Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup!

Weight Watchers SmartPoints (per serving):

  • Green Plan: 9 SmartPoints
  • Blue Plan: 9 SmartPoints
  • Purple Plan: 7 SmartPoints

This light and creamy version of Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a delicious and satisfying meal for those on a weight loss journey. Enjoy all the flavors without the guilt!